Whereas all abuse victims are at increased risk for developing major depression, attempting suicide, and getting involved with drugs and abusing alcohol;

Whereas domestic violence should be identified as a causative agent for certain injuries;

Whereas failure to diagnose domestic violence will result in failure to identify a disease process that is likely to recur;

It is therefore the responsibility of the treating surgeon not only to care for the immediate injury and to reassure the patient, but also to identify and report potential threats to his or her safety, and to encourage an ongoing safety strategy.

Surgeons are encouraged to take a leadership role in their communities, hospitals, and medical schools in preventing and treating domestic violence.